Automatic watering system for batteries and fuel cells

Abstract

An automatic watering and gas purging system for batteries and fuel cells utilizing a watering cap which establishes a desired electrolyte level in the cells.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A watering system for a battery having at least one cell said system comprising: an electrolyte reservoir;   at least one pump;   a respective watering cap associated with the watering aperture of each said cell;   a flame trap;   interconnecting means for selectively interconnecting said reservoir, said pump, each said respective watering cap, and said flame trap to form an essentially closed system;   said interconnecting means including gas purging means for selectively opening said closed system to the atmosphere, displacing electrolyte in said system outside of said cells with air and venting gases in said system through said flame trap;   each respective watering cap comprising:   a body, adapted for cooperation with said cell and including a hollow chamber,   an inlet and an outlet, communicating with said chamber and adapted for cooperation with said interconnecting means, said inlet and outlet having relatively large diameter;   an air displacement conduit having an upper portion extending into said chamber and a lower portion disposed to extend a predetermined distance into said cell, and   a watering conduit, communicating between said chamber and said cell, having a relatively small cross-sectional area.   
     
     
       2. The system of claim 1 wherein said flame trap is disposed to generate a reduced pressure in the portion of said interconnecting means returning electrolyte to said reservoir. 
     
     
       3. The system of claim 1 wherein said pump is disposed at an elevation higher than said reservoir and said gas purging means comprising: a stop cock opening to the atmosphere coupled into said interconnecting means between said reservoir and said pump, at an elevation higher than said reservoir, whereby, when said stop cock is opened, said pump forces air through said system.